Mets Morning News: Rafael Montero progresses in Mets’ defeat, trade deadline inches closer

Meet the Mets

Yes, the Mets again lost on a Sunday, but they didn’t get blown out and Rafael Montero looked better, so that’s progress. The good news is Michael Conforto continued to hit, but with a long road trip coming up, did the Citi Field faithful see the last of some dutiful Mets?

Choose your recap: Amazin Avenue short, Bergen Record, Daily News, MLB.com, Newsday, NJ.com, Post, Times

Despite giving up three home runs and getting the loss, Sunday was actually a step forward for Montero.

Fresh off his first All-Star appearance, Michael Conforto has caught fire since the break and has turned into the Mets’ best hitter.

The team won’t return home until after the trade deadline, so it seems not everyone will return to Citi Field when the calendar flips to August.

Amed Rosario, however, could be on the team next month, as long as he is fully recovered from the stomach issue that landed him in the hospital.

Some players came out of the break playing well, while others look to pick it up as the Mets head out west.

With the Subway Series on the horizon, Steven Matz is already wondering what it will be like to face Aaron Judge.

Tim Tebow hit another home run in a win for St. Lucie.

The new protective netting at Citi Field got mixed reviews from fans.

Around the NL East

The Braves attempted a comeback against the Kershaw-less Dodgers, but they ultimately lost in extras.

The Marlins failed to sweep the Reds in a 6-3 loss. The Yankees inquired about Giancarlo Stanton’s availability.

The Phillies’ overpowered the suddenly struggling Brewers and took the series with a win. The Rays could be interested in acquiring Phillies reliever Pat Neshek.

The Nationals defeated the Diamondbacks, but Stephen Strasburg was taken out after the second when he felt some stiffness in his forearm.

Around the Majors

The Dodgers suffered a huge blow when Clayton Kershaw left his start with back tightness and he is expected to land on the DL.

The Red Sox are calling up Rafael Devers, who is the top prospect in their system.

Orioles closer Zach Britton set a new American League record for consecutive saves when he picked up his 55th straight save. Kenley Jansen’s streak, on the other hand, ended at 34 when he blew the save against the Braves.

The Cubs climbed back into first place with a win over the rival Cardinals.

Astros third baseman Colin Moran was placed on the DL after a scary incident occurred in Saturday’s game.

This Date in Mets History

On this date last year, beloved catcher Mike Piazza was finally inducted into the Hall of Fame as a New York Met. Grab a tissue and relive his emotional speech on this first anniversary.

Another Met was honored on this date in 1988. In a pre-game ceremony at Shea Stadium, Tom Seaver’s number 41 was retired.